A dynamical systems approach to motor development.

K Kamm; E Thelen; J L Jensen

doi:10.1093/ptj/70.12.763

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A dynamical systems approach to motor development.

K Kamm·E Thelen·J L Jensen

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Abstract

The study of motor development has long influenced the clinical practice of physical therapy. We first review the contributions and deficiencies of two traditional maturational and reflex-based models of motor development. Second, we describe basic principles of kinematic and kinetic analyses of movement and show how we have applied these techniques to understand infant stepping and kicking. Third, we propose a theory of motor development based on a dynamical systems perspective that is consistent with our infant studies. Finally, we explore the implications of the model for physical therapists.

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Child Development Child, Preschool Humans Infant Kinesis Models, Neurological Motor Activity Motor Neurons Movement Physical Therapy Modalities Reflex Systems Theory Journal Article Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

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K Kamm, E Thelen, J L Jensen. 1990. A dynamical systems approach to motor development.. https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj%2F70.12.763

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